Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. This creamy soup combines savory sausage, tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and herby sun-dried tomatoes, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends. Its rich flavors make it a standout choice for both weeknight meals and special occasions, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 60 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a soup that is bursting with savory goodness.
• Versatile Meal: Pair it with hearty buttered bread or serve it as a standalone dish – it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vegetables like kale and carrots, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Comfort Food Classic: Ideal for chilly days or when you need a little extra comfort, this soup hits the spot every time.

Tools and Preparation

To make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, having the right tools makes the process easier and more enjoyable. Gather your kitchen essentials before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage without taking excess grease along with it.
• Whisk: Helps to create a smooth slurry when combining broth and flour, ensuring a creamy texture.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (see note 1)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups finely diced yellow onion (1 large onion)
• 2 cups finely diced carrots (4–5 carrots)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons flour

For the Broth and Pasta

• 7-1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups mini bowtie pasta (see note 2)

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1-1/2 cups heavy cream
• 2-1/2 packed cups finely chopped kale
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1/2 packed cup grated Parmesan cheese (sandy texture, see note 3)

For Serving

• Hearty buttered bread (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot over high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add sausage, salt, and pepper. Sear for about one minute on each side. Crumble the sausage with a spoon while cooking until browned. Remove the sausage using a slotted spoon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pot along with onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté these ingredients until they become tender; this should take about 7–9 minutes. Sprinkle flour on top of the sautéed vegetables and cook for an additional minute while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Create the Broth Base

Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking continuously to form a slurry. Slowly incorporate the remaining broth by whisking and scraping down any bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Bring the broth mixture to a boil then add mini bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions but reduce cooking time by one minute. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Lower heat to low after cooking pasta. Add in heavy cream, chopped kale, and sun-dried tomatoes while stirring well. Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese by adding a few tablespoons at a time; this helps avoid clumping. Stir until melted before adding back in the cooked sausage. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed; feel free to add more broth for a thinner consistency if desired.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Serve hot alongside hearty buttered bread if desired. If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before enjoying!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to enhance the dining experience. Whether you prefer a cozy family meal or a casual gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup game.

With Hearty Buttered Bread

• Pair your soup with warm, buttered bread for a comforting combo. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving. This adds an extra kick that complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Accompanied by a Simple Salad

• A light salad made from mixed greens and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. It provides freshness and crunch to each bite.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes it feel special. Add garnishes like extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for an appealing look.

With Grated Cheese on Top

• Sprinkle additional grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Pecorino, over the soup before serving. This enhances flavor and adds a delightful texture.

As Part of a Cozy Dinner Spread

• Serve your soup alongside other comforting dishes like roasted vegetables or stuffed bell peppers for a complete meal that satisfies all appetites.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

To create the ultimate Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will significantly improve the taste of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Add salt and pepper incrementally until you achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta has a firm bite by cooking it just until al dente. It will continue to soften in the soup.
• Incorporate Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Allow Time for Flavors to Develop: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can turn it into a full meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread offers crunch and flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad
   This salad’s crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add color and nutrients alongside your dish.

4. Caprese Skewers
   These skewers of cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offer freshness and are easy to prepare for gatherings.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Filled with grains and veggies, stuffed peppers make for a filling side that pairs well with Italian flavors.

6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits
   Soft, cheesy biscuits add comfort and pair wonderfully with the creamy nature of the soup.

7. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful balance to savory soups while being easy to share.

8. Bruschetta
   Topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil on toasted bread, bruschetta makes for an appetizing starter before serving your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using Low-Quality Sausage: Not all sausages are created equal. Using low-quality sausage can lead to a bland soup. Choose a good quality Italian sausage for rich flavor.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing onions and garlic adds depth to the soup. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and reduce cooking time slightly since it continues to cook in the soup.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust salt or pepper levels based on your preferences and ingredients used.
• Forgetting to Stir: Ingredients can stick to the bottom of the pot if not stirred regularly. Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Italian Sausage Pasta Soup.

What is Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a comforting dish that combines creamy broth with flavorful sausage, pasta, and vegetables. It’s hearty and perfect for cold days.

Can I use turkey instead of sausage?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for Italian sausage. It will still provide good flavor when seasoned properly.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach based on your preference.

How do I thicken Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour when sautéing or use cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent during cooking.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your tastes. Whether you choose different proteins or add extra veggies, this comforting dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try!